What are the two types of the GRE exam?
The GRE has two exam types: the General Test and the Subject Test. The General Test measures your verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills, while the Subject Test focuses on your knowledge in a specific academic discipline, so pick whichever one matches what your target graduate program requires.
The GRE comes in two distinct types: the General Test and the Subject Test. Your General Test score reflects verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing ability, while a Subject Test measures how well you know a particular academic field. Most graduate applicants only need the General Test, but check your program's requirements.
GRE General Test vs Subject Test
| GRE Type | What It Measures |
|---|---|
| General Test | Verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing |
| Subject Test | Knowledge in a specific academic subject |
Why Practicing With Sample Papers Helps
Working through official GRE sample papers regularly helps you get familiar with question types, manage your time better, and build confidence before test day, regardless of which GRE type your program asks for. Solving these papers also shows you exactly where your weak areas lie, so you can direct your revision more effectively.
My Advice
Confirm with your target graduate programs whether they want the General Test, the Subject Test, or both, before you start your preparation, so you do not spend time practicing for the wrong exam.
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